Study blasts Capitol security

FORT WORTH {AP} State officials trying to increase security around Texas after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks may find some problems at the Texas Capitol and its surrounding structures.

The Capitol and other state government buildings in Texas are particularly vulnerable, according to a 2000 legislative study that cites communication breakdowns among state agencies; a lack of training for state workers; and confusing instructions for responding to bomb threats.

The study also found policies that allow handguns in some buildings. A person legally may carry a loaded pistol into the open-air gallery overlooking the state Senate, officials said.

Officials have corrected some of the problems and are working on others, but they say potential lapses remain.